Maintaining discipline is not about restriction, it’s about creating order.

It’s not about forcing yourself to do things you hate, it’s about establishing routines that help you excel.

And highly disciplined people have mastered this art. They have routines that they follow religiously, especially in the early hours of the day.

According to psychology, there are nine specific things these folks tend to do before 8am every day. And the best part? Anyone can adopt these habits.

So let’s dive in and discover these 9 things that can potentially transform your days for the better.

1) They rise early

Psychology suggests that the quiet hours of the morning can be a goldmine for productivity.

Highly disciplined people are well aware of this. They value the tranquility and focus that the early morning hours provide.

While most folks are still hitting the snooze button, these individuals are already up and active. They seize this time to accomplish tasks without interruptions, setting the tone for the rest of their day.

But it’s not just about being an early bird for the sake of it. It’s about having a purposeful start to the day and taking control of their morning routines.

So, if you’re looking to cultivate discipline, consider setting your alarm a bit earlier. Remember, though, it’s not about punishing yourself with an early wake-up call. It’s about creating a routine that works for you and helps you be more productive throughout the day.

2) They exercise

Exercise is a common thread among highly disciplined people. It’s not just about physical health, but also mental wellness and clarity.

I can personally attest to this. A few years ago, I decided to experiment with my routines. I moved my workout from the evening to the early morning. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer.

Starting my day with a jog around the block or a quick yoga session not only invigorates me physically but also clears my mind, preparing me to tackle the day’s challenges head-on.

The satisfaction of having accomplished something even before most people are up is truly empowering. It’s like a secret success that sets the pace for the rest of the day.

So, if you’ve been procrastinating on that workout routine, why not try moving it to the morning? You might surprise yourself with how much you can achieve before 8am.

3) They hydrate

Hydration plays a crucial role in how our bodies function. Water kick-starts our metabolism and helps in the flushing out of toxins.

Highly disciplined people understand this and usually start their day by drinking water. This simple act sets them on the right path for maintaining proper hydration throughout the day.

According to science, an adequate daily fluid intake is about 3.7 liters (or about 13 cups) for men and 2.7 liters (or about 9 cups) for women. This includes all beverages and food.

So, starting the day off with a glass or two of water is a great way to get a head start on meeting this daily need. It’s a healthy habit that can make a big difference in your day.

4) They plan their day

One thing that highly disciplined people do consistently is plan their day. They understand that good organization is key to achieving their goals.

Rather than diving headfirst into the day, they take a moment in the morning to outline what they want to accomplish. This can be as simple as writing a to-do list or as detailed as time-blocking every hour of the day.

By doing this, they set clear expectations for their day. It helps them to prioritize tasks and manage their time more effectively, reducing the risk of getting overwhelmed or side-tracked.

So, if you want to be more disciplined, try starting your day with a little planning. It could do wonders for your productivity.

5) They eat a healthy breakfast

A nourishing breakfast is another habit common among highly disciplined individuals. They understand that the first meal of the day plays a vital role in setting the tone for their energy levels and focus throughout the day.

Instead of skipping breakfast or grabbing a sugary pastry on the go, they choose options that are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This could be something like a bowl of oatmeal with fruits and nuts, or eggs with whole-grain toast.

This kind of breakfast not only provides sustained energy but also helps in maintaining concentration and productivity levels.

So, if you’re looking to improve your discipline, consider revamping your breakfast routine. Remember to choose foods that will fuel your body for a productive day.

6) They practice gratitude

Gratitude isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a powerful habit that can shift your mindset and attitude towards the day ahead.

Highly disciplined people often take a few moments each morning to reflect on what they’re grateful for. This sets a positive tone for their day, allowing them to approach challenges with a more optimistic outlook.

It doesn’t have to be grand gestures or monumental achievements. Sometimes, it’s the small things that make the biggest impact in our lives. A hot cup of coffee, the sunrise, or even the comfort of your own bed can be sources of gratitude.

Cultivating this habit can truly transform your perspective and help you appreciate your journey, even when things get tough. So, why not take a moment each morning to count your blessings? It could be the mood-booster you need to start your day off right.

7) They avoid digital distractions

We live in an age where our smartphones are often the first things we reach for in the morning. But highly disciplined people resist this urge.

I’ve learned this the hard way. I used to start my day scrolling through social media or checking emails. It felt like I was being productive, but in reality, it was just a vortex of distraction.

I’ve since switched to a ‘digital-free’ morning routine. No phone, no laptop, just me and my morning tasks.

The difference has been astounding. I’m more focused, less stressed, and I get to start my day on my own terms, rather than being pulled into the digital world’s demands.

So if you’re looking for a discipline boost, consider keeping your morning free of digital distractions. It might feel strange at first, but the benefits are well worth it.

8) They engage in a mindfulness practice

Mindfulness is another common practice among highly disciplined people. They understand the importance of starting the day with a clear and centered mind.

This could be a formal meditation session, a few moments of deep breathing, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea. The key is to take this time to be present and to set a calm and focused tone for the day.

Engaging in a mindfulness practice each morning can help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being. It’s a simple yet powerful way to start your day off on the right foot.

9) They take proactive steps towards their goals

Above all, highly disciplined people use their morning hours to take proactive steps towards their goals. They don’t just dream about success, they work for it.

Whether it’s working on a personal project, learning a new skill, or simply reading a book that expands their knowledge, they dedicate time each morning to activities that bring them closer to their aspirations.

This intentional use of time is what sets them apart. It’s not just about being busy, but about being productive in a way that aligns with their long-term vision.

Remember, every journey starts with a single step. And for highly disciplined people, that first step often happens before 8am.